Saturday, 19 February 2011

Ellie's story....

9th February 2000 was a normal day in the Webster household. Overnight everything changed.

Ellie was awoken just before 1am by the sound of her husband Ben 'choking'. Within half an hour he had died and gone to glory,aged 28. The paramedics could do nothing. Ellie was taken to hospital in a police car. There was no warning and no previous history of serious illness. They were two terms into bible college, pursuing the call of God on their lives. Their son was aged 2 and their daughter was to celebrate her 1st birthday just 12 days later.

Jan 2010 - 10 years later living as a single parent bringing up her two children alone and Ellie was still utterly crushed by the tragedy of that night. She had been a Christian since a very young age and knew that bad things happen - and asking God 'Why?' was a fruitless question - there would be no answer. Yet in it all she knew too that Jesus was by her side everyday through all the tears, through all the pain & through the long years. He was her strength and comfort through unimaginable grief.

Ellie and Ben had a good marriage, loved each other deeply and expected to live a 'normal' life.

Ellie and I talked first at the "A different journey" bereavement weekend run by Care for The Family. Since June last year we've spent long hours talking most nights, crying, grieving, aching and hurting. We laugh sometimes too!!! In it all has been the unmistakeable presence of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit. Ellie has been a gift from God to me in my darkest hours, a fabulous companion and somebody who has uniquely 'been there' and knows the gut-wrenching pain.

Ellie has no idea why her husband died, I have no idea why my wife died. But I'm so grateful to this lady who's passion for Jesus is inspirational to me, and who's friendship, care and love has been exceptional through the very toughest of times. I love her very much, she has become my very closest and most special friend.

We thank Ellie too for the comfort she has given. It's so nice to hear that you have found love and happiness between the tears.You are constantly in our thoughts and we wish you happiness in the future that you all so deserve.Lots of love to you all.M & D xxxxxxx